New York is one of the latest states to allow both medical and recreational marijuana for purchase. In fact, laws have been progressively changing over the last few years with adult-use recreational marijuana becoming legal in New York in early 2021.

That means that you can drop in to any number of cannabis dispensaries and weed shops in NYC to find exactly what you’re looking for. The New York marijuana rules and laws have vastly changed in recent years – for the better! 

We’ve compiled a list of our top 10 cannabis shops to buy legal weed in and around NYC. We’ll give you a complete breakdown of dispensaries, weed products to buy, and some of our personal favorites. Dive in and find all the best places to buy legal weed in NYC! 

Can you buy legal weed in NYC?

The short answer is yes! Access to medical marijuana has been available for some time but you will need a medical card in order to buy weed legally. Access to recreational marijuana has only just begun with many shops still working to gather licenses in order to fully operate. When it comes to the question of where can I buy marijuana legally in New York, there are more and more options to choose from than ever before. 

Can I go to a dispensary in NYC without a card? 

As of 2021, yes! You will need a medical card when purchasing from a medical dispensary. But there are now a whole slew of recreational locations to buy legal weed in NYC. Getting a medical card might be a good option for those that are seeking a more medical approach to their cannabis use. It all just depends on the type of products and quality of service you’re looking for. There are options all across the city to find the perfect place to buy legal weed in NYC. 

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Take a look at some of our top favorites found throughout the city:

1. MedMen - Fifth Avenue

Located in the heart of Manhattan, MedMen is a premier cannabis dispensary known for its upscale atmosphere and extensive selection. Here, you'll find a wide range of products, including flower, edibles, concentrates, and much more. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through your options, ensuring you find the perfect strain to suit your needs! 


2. The Botanist - Queens

Situated in the vibrant borough of Queens, The Botanist offers a unique and immersive cannabis buying experience. Their knowledgeable bud-tenders provide personalized recommendations, and their selection of strains, tinctures, and topicals is sure to impress even the most discerning cannabis connoisseurs.


3. Gotham Medical - Chelsea

Gotham Medical, nestled in the trendy neighborhood of Chelsea, stands out for its commitment to quality and customer service. Their extensive menu includes a wide variety of strains, and their friendly staff is always ready to assist with any questions or concerns you may have. Their top-of-the-line professionals are highly knowledgeable and will be able to hep you find the strains and products that work best for you.


4. Be. - Brooklyn

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Be. is a popular dispensary known for its emphasis on organic, locally sourced cannabis products. Their commitment to sustainability and community sets them apart, and their knowledgeable staff can guide you towards the perfect product for your needs. High-quality meets high standards, the perfect combo for finding exclusive products that are sourced in sustainable ways. 


5. Columbia Care - Union Square 

Columbia Care, situated near Union Square, is a well-established dispensary that offers a wide range of high-quality cannabis products. Whether you're looking for CBD-rich strains or potent THC concentrates, Columbia Care has you covered. Their sleek and modern store provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for all customers.


6. Etain - Manhattan

Etain is a family-owned dispensary located in the Flatiron district of Manhattan. With a focus on medical cannabis, Etain provides a wide range of products tailored to meet various health needs. Their compassionate staff is dedicated to assisting patients with finding the most suitable strains and consumption methods. 


7. Vireo Health - Queens

Vireo Health, with a dispensary in Queens, is known for its commitment to patient care and education. Their knowledgeable staff takes the time to understand individual needs and guide patients through the selection process. With a focus on wellness, Vireo Health offers a range of high-quality products to support a healthier lifestyle.


8. Curaleaf - Newburgh 

Curealeaf's has multiple locations around New York including Newburgh in Orange County, Carle Place in Nassau County, Plattsburgh in Clinton County and Queens, NY. Curaleaf offers a comfortable and welcoming environment for cannabis enthusiasts. With a diverse selection of products, including flower, concentrates, and edibles, Curaleaf ensures there's something for everyone. Their knowledgeable staff is readily available to answer any questions and provide tailored recommendations.

9. Beyond/Hello - East Village

Beyond/Hello has locations all across the country, with their New York location nestled in the vibrant East Village. Beyond/Hello is a cannabis dispensary that prides itself on offering a personalized and educational experience. Their staff is well-versed in cannabis knowledge and can help you navigate their selection of premium products. Whether you're a novice or an experienced consumer, Beyond/Hello has the expertise to cater to your needs!

10. Theory Wellness - Great Barrington, Massachusetts

New York isn’t the only state in the unions to offer medical and recreational cannabis. For those that find themselves a bit outside of the city limits, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of our favorites is from our friends over at Theory Wellness. Located in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, this recreational marijuana dispensary boasts a huge selection of cannabis products like flower, pre-rolls, vaporizers, tinctures, and much more. Visit the first dispensary located in the Berkshires and learn more about why they’re one of the best in the business!

Buying Legal Weed in NYC: The Wrap Up

New York City has emerged as a thriving destination for cannabis enthusiasts seeking to buy legal weed. With the recent legalization of recreational cannabis, the city now boasts a plethora of dispensaries offering high-quality products and exceptional customer experiences. Whether you're a seasoned cannabis connoisseur or a curious beginner, there are numerous options available throughout the city to fulfill your needs.

The nine dispensaries highlighted in this article provide an excellent starting point for anyone looking to buy legal weed in NYC. From the upscale ambiance of MedMen on Fifth Avenue to the community-focused approach of Citiva in Brooklyn, each dispensary offers its own unique experience and product selection.

Moreover, these dispensaries prioritize customer education and staff expertise. Whether you have questions about strain potency, consumption methods, or the potential health benefits of cannabis, the budtenders at these dispensaries are there to guide you. They possess extensive knowledge about the products they offer and can help you make informed choices based on your preferences and needs.

It's worth mentioning that while these dispensaries provide legal and regulated cannabis products, it's essential to follow the laws and regulations governing cannabis consumption in New York City. This includes being of legal age, adhering to possession limits, and consuming cannabis responsibly and in designated areas.

Buying legal weed in NYC not only ensures the quality and safety of the products you purchase but also supports the local economy and the ongoing development of the cannabis industry. By patronizing these dispensaries, you contribute to the growth of a legal and regulated market while enjoying the benefits of a safe and controlled cannabis purchasing experience.

Furthermore, the availability of a wide range of cannabis products caters to different preferences and needs. Whether you're seeking the relaxing effects of an indica strain, the energizing properties of a sativa, or the therapeutic benefits of CBD, you'll find a variety of options at these dispensaries.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve in New York City, it's anticipated that more dispensaries will open, providing even greater choices for consumers. The competition among dispensaries will likely lead to improved product offerings, increased accessibility, and enhanced customer experiences.

In conclusion, buying legal weed in NYC has never been more exciting and convenient. The nine dispensaries mentioned in this article represent the cream of the crop, offering a combination of top-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and memorable experiences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, take advantage of the legalized cannabis market and explore these dispensaries to embark on a cannabis journey that's both legal and enjoyable. Remember to consume responsibly, stay informed about the laws, and embrace the benefits of legal cannabis in the vibrant city of New York. 

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